58. Colonel NEWMANasked the Prime Minister whether, having regard to the passage through the Dail and Sénad of an Irish Army Bill, communications have passed between the Governments of Great Britain and the Free State as to the standing strength of the army of the Free State as laid down by the terms of the Treaty between the Free State and Great Britain?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREThe answer is in the negative.
§ Mr. A. M. SAMUELWhat need is there at all for this Irish Free State standing army? Is not the Free State amply protected against enemies by the whole British Navy?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREThe Irish Free State have required an army to put down a formidable Republican rebellion.
Colonel NEWMANMay I ask whether, before the Army Bill becomes an Act, His Majesty's Government will see that effect is given to the Clause in the Treaty that governs the strength of the Free State army?
§ Mr. ORMSBY-GOREThis matter has not yet been discussed between the two Governments. I do not say that it will not be discussed in the future, as discussion of the point is provided for in the Treaty.